Children will see the effects of solar energy in real time as they build solar ovens as part of a two-part event at the Jaffrey Public Library this month.
The Jaffrey Public Library, in collaboration with the Monadnock Ledger-Transcript, is hosting “Experiment with Solar Power: Learn to Make a Solar Oven” on Sept. 23 and Sept. 30 at the library. The project is part of the Ledger-Transcript’s ongoing Preserving our Region solutions journalism series.
Jaffrey Public Library Youth Services Librarian Kayla Charlonne said the project introduces elementary- and middle-schoolers to concepts with much broader uses. While the children attending the activity will make solar ovens from upcycled household materials such as pizza boxes and aluminum foil, they’ll also learn about the potential uses of solar power beyond everyday life.
As part of the program, Charlonne will discuss NASA’s moon base, the first planned lunar outpost on the moon’s south pole. The base will be the focus of both manned and unmanned missions through 2032, and solar and nuclear power are both expected to be part of the energy systems.
During the first session, students will learn about solar energy and build their ovens, with assistance from volunteers from Franklin Pierce University’s Institute for Climate Action. The following week, they’ll get to put their creations to the test, using them to make s’mores, and melt and re-mold broken crayons to bring them back to life.
The Jaffrey Public Library’s Teen Advisory Group selected the activity, which is best suited for children ages 8-12.
Both sessions will be held from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. All materials will be provided. Registration is required, and participants must commit to both sessions. For more information and to register, visit jaffreypubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/17379900. This is a free event.